I Can't Make This Up

Every experience is a potential life lesson. Even if you don’t appreciate it at the time, each struggle in the present is preparing you for something else in the future.

Going into this I really didn't know that much about Kevin Hart. I'd seen him in a few movies (he's hilarious in Jumanji) and I knew he was a stand up comedian though I've not caught any of his shows. I noticed his book was getting some great reviews so I figured why not? I am so glad I gave it a shot.

I Can't Make This Up is a memoir about Kevin Hart's life and how he worked to make it big in the entertainment industry. He covers everything from his childhood, family, friends, career and the many mistakes he's made along the way. The story is told with a lot of humor, show more as you'd expect from a comedian, brutal honesty and a lot of heart (pun intended). Kevin's life philosophy is surprisingly uplifting and positive. The unique way he looks at the world is what has allowed him to grow from highly negative circumstances and learn from all of life's experiences to keep growing personally and professionally in the face of both adversity and success. Yes, success has it's own challenges too. It's a great message, one that applies to anyone in any walk of life not just those trying to make it in the entertainment business.

I listened to the audio book narrated by the author. I'm starting to think this is the way to go with memoirs when it's possible. His delivery can't be beat and he added so many funny little asides that were not part of the book itself that you would miss by reading the book the traditional way. show less

My feelings about Kevin Hart are complicated. He's been undeniably funny many times in his career, but he's also got a very uncomfortable relationship with the LGBTQ community, which concerns me. I thought perhaps this book would help me to cement a clearer picture of who he is, but I'm afraid that it didn't. It's occasionally amusing, often fascinating, and seems to be completely honest. He doesn't paint himself in the best light at times, and is more than willing to call out his poor decisions and bad behavior. I respect that. But he also doesn't spend much time on most of those bad decisions, although one could argue that he shouldn't, because that's not what the book is about. I'm so torn on this book (and the man behind it), but at show more the end of the day it is a compelling read and worth the time. show less

I was not expecting to like this book as much as I did. Often, I would catch myself laughing out loud very loudly, even in front of a crowd... which is very unlike me. But it couldn't be helped. Hart's sense of humor kept me entertained throughout the whole book and left me constantly wondering what happened next. And at the same time, I found myself underlining many sentences and passages, as I felt his experiences offered many morsels of wisdom that were applicable to my life. His story is one that I can really relate to-- especially at this juncture in my life. Like him, I found a passion that I am pursuing wholeheartedly, and his dedication and persistence are things I found truly inspiring to my dreams. Hart is a hard worker and show more doesn't ever take no for an answer, and I have learned so much from his sharing of his life. I love this book very much and think everyone will have a good time reading it. show less

Kevin Hart, some people love him and some think he's a little too much. I found this book funny, transparent and positive. He delves deeper into some of the relationships he includes in his stand up. Kevin has overcome a lot and seems to be a half-glass-full kind of person. As a fan, it only increased my respect for him and made me understand his intense work ethic.

I Can’t Make This Up: Life Lessons

I Picked Up This Book Because: Kevin Hart wrote it. You dog on right I’m going to read it.

This book depicts the beginnings of Kevin Hart. From short kid with zero free time, thanks to his mom’s determination to keep him off the streets, to the superstar funny man we all know and love today. It wasn’t an easy trip and his success didn’t happen overnight but it is so inspiring. Kevin has a drive and determination that so few people have. His ability to shrug off the negative, the rejections, the setbacks have surely served him well.

The book covers his personal life also. From growing up with a semi estranged dad who was on drugs to his mother’s protectiveness to his relationship with his show more ex-wife and the beginnings of his relationship with his current wife. I love the way he speaks of his children and how he wants them to know that they have because of his hustle and they will need to develop their own once they are adults.

I feel like this book is perfect for anyone who is ready to chase their dream. Who needs motivation and encouragement to keep going even with the plan is not working as you thought it would.

The Random Thoughts:

I would have loved to listen to this in audiobook form. If Kevin narrates it's going to be amazingly funny.

4 Stars

Re-Read:
August 18 - August 28

I gotta say I enjoyed this the second time almost as much as the first. Kevn’s vocal dramatization of the words I was already familiar with did not disappoint. The consummate funny man brought so much energy and character to his words of wisdom. It was great to revisit his lessons. Contemplate again the great points he has made and reevaluate how these lessons apply to my life. show less

This book is funnier than some of Kevin Hart's standup. I really admire Kevin Hart's character and how he is real with everyone. This book is not only funny, but offers great points on how to evolve as a person(for the better).

REVISED! See Note Below!

Funny and interesting book, surprisingly well written for a celeb. piece. The story of Hart's childhood, family, slow and bumpy rise to fame and more. The best part of this book are Hart's "words of wisdom/life lessons" which are insightful, cautionary and inspiring.

This is the book to pass on to your (teen ) kids/friends who are not huge readers. It is a quick, easy read that will actually teach them some valuable lessons, give insight into the rich flashy stars they admire, talk about commitment, hard work, friendship, family values etc in a funny, easily digested manner. In my family the book is being passed around to all the adults, my older teens, my younger (12/15) nephews and their are multiple friends on show more the waiting list! Good thing we have 2 copies!

**NOTE: In light of recent revelations that Hart has admitted to once again cheating on his wife, I take back my recommendation to pass this on to teens! If you do share the book, be prepared to have a chat about this issue and his failure to learn from his mistakes, despite the hurt he has inflicted on now 2 wives, as well as his children. show less